Everyone is familiar with the classic two-tone eraser—the pink side and the mysterious blue side. For years, a popular belief has circulated: the blue side is meant to erase pen ink. Who hasn’t furiously scrubbed their notebook, hoping to erase an ink mistake, only to be left with a torn-up page?
So, What Is the Blue Part Really For?
The Myth of the Pen: Why Did This Belief Take Hold?
For generations, people have believed that the blue side erases pen ink, probably because of its rougher, more abrasive texture. And many of us have tested the theory… usually ending up with more holes in our paper than actual erased ink!
But here’s the truth: the blue part of the eraser is not designed to erase ink. Ink seeps into the fibers of the paper, unlike pencil marks, which stay on the surface. Rubbing harder won’t remove the ink—it’ll just destroy your page.
The Real Purpose of the Blue Side
Contrary to popular belief, the blue side is still meant for pencil, but on specific types of surfaces. Because it’s firmer and more abrasive, it works best on:
Thick or textured paper, like Canson or other artist-grade drawing paper
Cardboard or rigid surfaces where pencil tends to stick more
Walls, especially when cleaning off little kids’ doodles
Meanwhile, the pink side is softer and better suited for standard paper, like notebooks, printer paper, or binder sheets.
What the Experts Say
Even eraser manufacturers confirm that the blue side was never intended for ink. Its coarser texture allows for more aggressive erasing on rougher materials, but it won’t magically erase pen marks.
Some versions of the blue eraser can fade light ink on thick paper, but don’t expect it to erase it completely.
Final Verdict: Time to Let Go of the Myth
If you were one of the many who believed the blue eraser was a secret ink remover—you’re not alone! But now that the truth is out, you can stop grinding your pen mistakes into oblivion.
Use the right side of the eraser for the right surface, and your pencil marks will disappear with ease—no torn pages required.